Q&A WITH SHELLEY CLARK, 2011 DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD WINNER

Q: What does being chosen to receive the Distinguished Service Award mean to you?
A: It’s an honor to be chosen among your peers for an award.

Q: What was your reaction when you first heard about the award?
A: I was quite stunned. I actually had been having a conversation with Dr. Jacoby about some post-retirement work possibilities and that’s what I thought he was calling me about. It was not anything that I expected.

Q: What was the experience of being an award winner at the Foundation Recognition Banquet at Annual Conference like for you?
A: The banquet was the culmination of the excitement of receiving the award. I was happy to have my family and co-workers there who are so supportive of me. I have attended the Banquet for many years and was thrilled to be a part of it in this way.

Q: Your thoughts on the Illinois ASBO Foundation in its recognition of outstanding school business officials?
A: Illinois ASBO has acknowledged outstanding business managers every year. I believe that many people put a lot of time and effort to making this organization strong statewide. There are many others who are just as deserving, but giving some people the opportunity to be acknowledged helps others know they can strive to be in that position.

Q: What advice would you give to those that aspire to follow in your footsteps?
A: It’s a great profession that requires a lot of hard work. Getting to know those involved with Illinois ASBO is very helpful if you have a question or need some direction. If you are part of this group, there is a variety of opportunities available for help and support. There is also the benefit of meeting so many individuals that begin as acquaintances that become colleagues and colleagues that become friends. I would encourage anyone involved in IASBO to give as much as you can take from this group. The number of members who do that make this group the 'go to' group for school business information.

Q: The next step for you in your career?
A: I am looking to relax for part of the summer and then I will be working part-time at Benjamin School District 25 in West Chicago.

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